The function of the Committee on University Research is to stimulate faculty research and creative activity. This includes reviewing proposed summer fellowship projects and making appropriate recommendations for funding either an eight-week fellowship or a four-week fellowship.

The committee, chaired by the associate graduate dean for faculty scholarship (ex-officio), consists of two members from each of the five undergraduate colleges. The members of this committee shall be appointed by the deans of the undergraduate colleges and be impaneled for a two-year term. They shall be representative of faculty who have been sound practicing researchers and creative artists and who have a substantial record of publication and creative scholarship to their credit.